wish list options

Today’s wedding registries let you modernize tradition with a personal touch that suits everything you need -- and want!

A bridal registry offers a plethora of advantages to both the couple and their guests. For the couple, it is an opportunity to take inventory of what they possess together, and to let guests know what they need and want most.  A bridal registry keeps track of purchases and is also a wonderful way to protect against the duplication of gifts. After all, how many new brides actually need more than one toaster!

And while the registry is by no means set in stone, it provides direction for the guests and guarantees that their gift is something the couple wants, and will appreciate. Even guests who shop elsewhere can use the registry as a guide to the couple's taste and preferences.

Traditionally, the gifts you choose on your registry should be items both of you can enjoy together, rather than items for just one of you. Tradition also says, because wedding gifts are designed to take a couple from that special day through their entire lives, gifts should be relatively appropriate to the occasion. However, as with most aspects of your celebration, how much tradition you choose to incorporate is up to you.

Registering with a store that offers online registry and can receive orders via the Internet is one of the most reliable ways to ensure accessibility to all of your guests.

Though the Internet has made the registry process more convenient, some brides may wish to see the merchandise in person at some point to judge its quality and style. Registering for national and/or established brands will assure you of quality when ordering online.

You may certainly register at more than one location in fact it's recommended. But at the same time, limit your list to three. Including more than three stores will make it difficult for you to track and may be inconvenient for some guests. Do not register for the same items at more than one store to avoid receiving duplicates.

Although most guests prefer to give something tangible, monetary gifts may also be acceptable, though monetary gifts are best left to the discretion of the giver. If you wish to receive money, inform your wedding party and family members so they may tactfully let your guests know. Monetary gifts may also be presented toward a mortgage downpayment, or to a honeymoon registry through a travel agency or tour operator.

As long as you don't include your registration as part of your invitation or allow stores to send notices of this fact, your guests will be pleased that you have provided them with an easy way to select gifts that fit within their budget. Check out our expert advice on page 97 for some helpful Do’s & Dont’s of spreading the word